Update

Ok, we met with the surgeon earlier today. There is a lot of information here so try to keep up with me.

First, Ami and I are very comfortable with him and his staff. They did a very good job of explaining everything and easing our anxiety about the whole thing. They explained that a normal aortic valve is about 3cm across. Mine is about .8, which explains my lack of energy, constant fatigue and sore muscles. My body simply just isn't getting the oxygen it needs.

We have decided to go with the mechanical valve over the tissue valve. I had some reservations to this at first but he explained that this will be a lifetime fix. He has done mechanical valves for 30+ years and has not replaced one yet. There is no doubt that a tissue valve would have to be replaced in 20 years or less. I was also hesitant to taking Coumadin for the rest of my life but we went over that as well. It is not going to alter my life or routines much at all. Also, with the size valve I might need there is a chance I won't have to take it anyway, so that was good news.

The surgery will take anywhere from three to four hours and I will be in the hospital for five days after that.  Everyday in the hospital they will be having me do more and more to get my body working again. Visiting hours will be from 9am to 9pm. Should anyone want to come say hi the day after the surgery just get in contact with Ami.

By the time I leave I will be self sufficient enough to do the basic things myself; go to the restroom, shower, change cloths, etc. I will not be able to drive, lift anything or do anything that uses my chest for a month to six weeks. After my breast bone heals I will be able to start getting back into shape, with no restrictions. That is what I am the most excited about. I can't wait to see what it feels like to have a normally functioning heart that is actually supplying my body with the blood and oxygen that it needs.

The date has not been set yet but we should know tomorrow. It will be sometime in April. When the doctor asked when we wanted to do this my answer was as soon as possible, lets just get it over with.  I'll post that information as soon as I get it tomorrow.

As always we appreciate your thoughts and prayers while we push on through this adversity. We will come out the other side better and stronger.

Have a good night.